Before entering a trench that is 1.5 metres deep, what is the primary safety requirement according to Canadian OHS regulations?

Question: Before entering a trench that is 1.5 metres deep, what is the primary safety requirement according to Canadian OHS regulations?

Answer options:

• The trench must be dewatered. ✅ The trench must be inspected immediately prior to entry by a competent person and, if required, shored, sloped, or supported.
• Workers must wear high-visibility vests.
• The trench walls must be sprayed with a stabilizing agent.

Correct answer: The trench must be inspected immediately prior to entry by a competent person and, if required, shored, sloped, or supported.

Explanation: Provincial OHS regulations mandate that excavations over 1.2 metres (or 1.5 metres in some jurisdictions) deep must be inspected by a competent person and, if necessary, adequately sloped, shored, or supported before workers enter, to prevent cave-ins.